LicenseCompass

Apprentice Cosmetologist License in Kentucky

Quick Answer

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Kentucky, you must complete 10th grade and 1,800 hours of approved cosmetology training, then pass the Board exam. Annual renewal required. No CE needed. Estimated costs are approximately $175.

Education Required
1800 hours
Exam
Kentucky Board Cosmetology Exam
Total Cost
$175 (est.)
Timeline
10-16 months
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every 1 year

Requirements

Apprentice Cosmetologist license in Kentucky

gold
Education
Specific course required
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$25
Exam Fee
$50
Renewal Fee
$25
Total Estimated Cost
$175

Licensing Agency

Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Cosmetology

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Apprentice Cosmetologist license in Kentucky. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$25
Exam FeeEst.$50
Total Estimated Cost$75

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Kentucky licensing board.

Apprentice Cosmetologist Salary in Kentucky

Entry Level

$21,140

Median

$32,170

Experienced

$96,670

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Apprentice Cosmetologist in Kentucky.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Specific course required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — Kentucky Board Cosmetology Exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$25.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 10-16 months.

Apprentice Cosmetologist Licensing in Kentucky: What to Know

Kentucky requires 1,800 hours of cosmetology training at an approved school, which is above the national average. Applicants must have completed 10th grade. The exam covers practical and theory components, and exams are held September through June. No CE is required for renewal, and no criminal record prohibitions exist. Kentucky has annual renewal. Expedited processing is available for military spouses. The Kentucky Board of Cosmetology oversees licensing. The COS data titles this as 'Apprentice Cosmetologist,' but the requirements described are for the full license path.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Apprentice Cosmetologist license cost in Kentucky?
The estimated total cost is $175, including application fees, exam fees ($50), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Apprentice Cosmetologist license in Kentucky?
The process typically takes 10-16 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Apprentice Cosmetologist license in Kentucky?
You need to pass the Kentucky Board Cosmetology Exam. State exam required

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.